C3 heater core replacement

[Albert Richard]

I own a 1970 coupe w/o air which needs the heater core replaced. Is this a difficult job?.. does anyone have any wriiten instructions on how one can do this job. Thanks!

[Tony H.]

Re: C3 heater core replacement

Albert,

Depends what you mean by difficult. Technically, this is not difficult, but your patience and time might be challenged. About 12 years ago, I replaced mine under non-ideal conditions (just before winter on a cold day on a gravel driveway, with the threat of rain, etc.). It took me about eight hours. But with better conditions, maybe a 4-6 hour job for a do-it-yourselfer. A shop manual should be able to help with a step-by-step plan. Mine had to come out from the passenger compartment by removing the maps pocket panel.

In the archives, some have claimed to have had success removing the heater core from the engine compartment side, but I believe those cars were A/C-optioned so I'm not sure that it is possible for your car. Good luck and have patience. You can do it.

Tony

[Jim T.]

Re: C3 heater core replacement

Albert not having the 70's air conditioning ducts to contend with, removing the heater core from the inside should be no problem. Look for at least one, possibly two nuts that will have to be removed from the engine compartment firewall so the inside housing for the heater core will come out. I did the heater core replacement on my 70 with air and it is more involved because it has air. Be patient and flush the heater with fresh water after removing the heater hoses to keep the coolant off the carpet during removal. Even with air it is not a difficult job, just takes time and patience, a learning experience.

[Paul L.]

Re: C3 heater core replacement

It can come out from the firewall side. I have done the job twice.

[Donald S.]

Re: C3 heater core replacement

Albert,

Check out this web site; it's full of helpful information, especially on replacing heater cores. Do a search on "heater core" and you'll find excellent step by step instructions with pictures. You're not the first one to have this problem!

http://www.corvettefaq.com

Don Smith # 28087